Sinokubonga Nkala
Mbulelo Mpofu, [email protected]
A NEW beacon of hope for young artistic talent in the city has emerged in the form of the “Bulawayo Children’s Choir”.
Spearheaded by music director and educator Trevor Mawaka, this 25-member ensemble aims to nurture children’s artistic skills while steering them away from delinquent behaviours and youth vices which have been touted to be their demise.
The young choir, comprising talented vocalists from Petra High School, Dominican Convent Primary School, Charleston Trust Primary School, and Hillside Primary School, recently recorded their debut single, Banolila (Mother Earth is Crying).
This poignant and heartfelt ballad addresses the pressing issue of climate change, highlighting its devastating effects on the planet and the need for humanity to take an active role in mitigating global warming.
The choir is also preparing to shoot a music video to accompany the single, promising to bring their message to a wider audience.
In an interview, Mawaka expressed his passion for guiding children through music.
“I’m passionate about helping children hone their artistic skills, and what better way to do that than forming a choir for them?” he remarked.
He emphasised the importance of addressing the challenges facing today’s youth, stating, “We now have a drug pandemic in our midst, and usually, problems start when children are young. We, as teachers, have an obligation to help parents and guardians raise these children. Climate change problems affect all of us hence the need to challenge young minds to join in the fight against global warming.”
Mawaka’s approach has already garnered acclaim. His previous and continuous work with the Charleston Trust Primary School Choir and the MOSH All Abilities Choir has received rave reviews, showcasing his unique ability to inspire and engage young minds.
His reputation has even crossed borders, as he also helped form the Sawa Children’s Choir in Kenya last year.
The Bulawayo Children’s Choir is open to welcoming more members, encouraging children with a passion for music to join their ranks. Mawaka believes that music can be a transformative force in young lives, providing both an artistic outlet and a protective shield against the challenges they face.
Through music, the Bulawayo Children’s Choir aims not only to entertain but also to educate and inspire a new generation of compassionate and creative thinkers. – @MbuleloMpofu
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